Special Update: Nova Scotia Wildfires Resources

The following information was distributed by Halifax Regional Municipality on June 1.

HRM is urging those operating construction sites to ensure they follow site safety protocols. At this time, it is particularly critical to:

• Eliminate all ignition sources, such as smoking and open flames.
• Keep main fuel supply stored in approved tanks, located on level ground, and kept away from work areas.
• Park, shut down and cool all equipment prior to fueling.
• Provide continuous fire watch for two hours after construction activities.
• Not to allow brush or other debris to accumulate under or around equipment.

Site operators also have a responsibility to regularly examine construction sites, ensure the early availability of water and firefighting supplies, and train employees in basic firefighting procedures.

Site operators are also reminded to clean up fuel spills immediately using non-combustible absorbing compounds, and to protect high-value special equipment with a fixed extinguishing system.

The Safety Branch of the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration would like to inform workplaces about Heat Stress to ensure that their outdoor workers are protected from heat stress injuries. Heat stress is the buildup of heat in the body to the point where the body’s thermostat has difficulty maintaining normal internal body temperature

Employers need to take important steps and precautions about the weather and understand the heat stress warning signs. Click here to access the PDF Safety Alert on Heat Stress.